NSW Vinnies elect female leader

The St Vincent de Paul Society has elected Barbara Ryan as its NSW state president - the first woman to be elected in the position in the 127-year history of the society.

The Catholic Weekly reports, elected by the Trustees Council on February 16, Ms Ryan takes over from Raymond James who has been acing state president since the retirement of John O'Neill.

Ms Ryan has been involved with the Society since 1994, predominantly as president of Matt Talbot Homeless Services, as a member of the Trustees Council since 2005, a member of the Society's Aged Care Board and an active member of the Mosman conference.